Brooke Martin
Ear candles, also known as thermal-auricular therapy, are hollow cones made from cloth soaked in beeswax or paraffin. They are placed in the ear canal and lit, with the heat and smoke creating a vacuum to draw out impurities and earwax. While some individuals swear by their effectiveness, there is no scientific evidence to support their use, and they pose serious health risks, including burns, a perforated eardrum, and hearing loss. So, what are the best ear candles?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Length | Around 10 inches long |
| Material | Cotton or linen tightly wound into a cone shape, covered in beeswax, paraffin, or soy wax |
| Cost | A few dollars per candle |
| Usage | Lie on your side with the ear to be treated facing up. Place the candle through a hole in a paper or foil plate to catch wax drippings. Put the candle into your external ear canal and light it. |
| Benefits | Proponents of ear candling claim that it softens earwax and sucks out wax and impurities from the ear. They also claim that it treats bacterial infections, cold and flu symptoms, migraines, sore throats, sinus infections, and colds. |
| Risks | Burns, a perforated eardrum, hearing loss, ear canal obstruction, and serious injuries |
| Effectiveness | No scientific evidence supporting the benefits of ear candling. Studies have shown that no significant amount of earwax is extracted, and in some cases, ear candle residue can be left behind in the ear canal. |
| Alternatives | Over-the-counter ear drops, hydrogen peroxide, or oil to soften earwax. Professional cleaning by a doctor or hearing care expert. |
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What You'll Learn
The safety and efficacy of ear candles are debated
Ear candles, also known as thermal-auricular therapy, are hollow cones made from cloth or cotton soaked in beeswax, paraffin, or soy wax. They are used as a natural remedy for various ear-related issues, including wax buildup, congestion, and even tinnitus. The candle is lit and inserted into the ear canal, with the belief that the heat and smoke generated create a vacuum, drawing out impurities and earwax.
However, the safety and efficacy of ear candles are highly debated. Critics argue that there is no scientific evidence supporting the claims made about their effectiveness. Studies have shown that no significant amount of earwax is extracted, and in some cases, candle residue can be left behind in the ear canal, causing obstruction and even increasing earwax buildup. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned against ear candling, stating that it carries a high risk of burns, middle ear damage, and other serious injuries.
Proponents of ear candling claim that it provides a holistic approach to ear care and that the warm smoke creates a mild vacuum, drawing out wax and debris. They also believe that the dark, waxy substance left in the candle stub is proof of earwax removal. However, healthcare professionals recommend against ear candling due to its potential dangers and ineffectiveness. They suggest alternative methods for earwax removal, such as over-the-counter ear drops or hydrogen peroxide, which are safer and more effective.
While some individuals swear by the effectiveness of ear candles, the lack of scientific evidence and potential risks, including burns and injuries, are concerning. It is always advisable to consult a medical professional for proper ear care and explore alternative methods supported by scientific research to ensure optimal ear health and prevent potential complications.
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There is no scientific evidence to support ear candling
Ear candling, also known as "ear coning", is a technique that involves placing a hollow candle soaked in beeswax or paraffin inside the ear. The far end of the candle is lit, and the heat allegedly produces suction, drawing out earwax, debris, and bacteria from the ear canal. While some individuals swear by its effectiveness as a natural remedy for various ear-related issues, there is a lack of scientific evidence to support these claims.
Firstly, it is important to understand that earwax, or medically known as "cerumen", is a naturally occurring substance that serves to clean, protect, and lubricate the ear canal. It is produced by the outer two-thirds of the ear canal and naturally works its way out during motions such as chewing or swallowing. While some people may find earwax unpleasant, it is important to note that it is a self-cleansing, lubricating, and antibacterial substance. People without enough earwax may experience dry and itchy ears.
One study found that there was no suction force created during the candling procedure. The temperatures produced by the candle were below body temperature, which is too low to melt the wax. In fact, the debris inside burned candles, which is supposed to be the impurities removed from the ear, can also be found in candles that have not been used near an ear canal. When studied, it was revealed that the contents were simply a blend of burned candle wax and fabric.
Furthermore, there are many risks associated with ear candling. The open flame and melting wax pose several health risks, including burns to the face, neck, eardrum, middle ear, or ear canal. There are also reports of punctured eardrums and ear canal obstruction due to candle residue. The potential risks and side effects increase significantly when children are involved, as their movement during the procedure can cause hot wax or ash to fall outside the protected area.
Instead of ear candling, it is recommended to consult a medical professional for proper ear care and explore alternative methods supported by scientific research. For earwax removal, over-the-counter ear drops or a few drops of water or hydrogen peroxide can be used safely at home.
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Ear candles can cause serious injuries and burns
Ear candles, also known as thermal-auricular therapy, are hollow cones made from cloth soaked in beeswax or paraffin. They are used as a natural remedy for various ear-related issues, including wax buildup, congestion, and even tinnitus. However, their efficacy and safety have sparked debates within the medical community and among users. While some individuals swear by their effectiveness, there is a lack of scientific evidence to support their use, and the potential risks, including burns and injuries, cannot be ignored.
Burns and Skin Damage: The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that ear candling carries a high risk of potentially severe skin, hair, and ear burns, even when used according to the manufacturer's directions. The close proximity of the lit candle to the face and ears increases the risk of burns and skin damage.
Ear Canal Obstruction: Ear candles can leave behind candle residue in the ear canal, leading to blockage and exacerbating existing issues. This residue is a blend of burned candle wax and fabric, which can be difficult to remove and may require medical intervention.
Punctured Eardrums: There have been reports of punctured eardrums after the candling process. The heat and pressure created by the burning candle can damage the delicate eardrum, leading to hearing loss and other complications.
Fire Hazard: Ear candling poses a risk of starting fires. There have been reported incidents of house fires, one of which was fatal, caused by accidents during ear candling.
Ineffectiveness in Removing Earwax: Critics argue that ear candles are ineffective in removing earwax. While the warm smoke may create a sensation of removal, studies have shown that no significant amount of earwax is extracted. In some cases, the ear candle residue can be left behind, causing further complications.
It is important to consult a medical professional for proper ear care and explore alternative methods that are supported by scientific research. Regular cleaning and maintenance, along with professional guidance, can help ensure optimal ear health and prevent potential complications.
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Alternative treatments for ear wax removal
Ear candling, or coning, is an alternative approach to removing earwax. It involves placing a lit, hollow candle in the ear canal to create a low-level vacuum that supposedly softens and removes earwax and other impurities. However, there is no scientific evidence that ear candling works, and medical experts advise against it due to the risks of burns, a perforated eardrum, hearing loss, and other injuries.
Over-the-Counter Ear Drops
Over-the-counter ear drops can be used to soften and dislodge earwax. These drops may contain hydrogen peroxide, which is thought to break apart earwax when it bubbles. A few drops can be applied to the affected ear, left for a few minutes, and then allowed to drain out by turning the head to the side. This process can be repeated once or twice daily for up to two weeks.
Warmed Oils
Natural oils such as olive or sesame oil have been used in some cultures to soften earwax before removal. A few drops of warmed oil can be applied to the affected ear and left for a few minutes before wiping away the excess with a tissue. This process can also be repeated once or twice daily for up to two weeks.
Ear Irrigation
Ear irrigation is another traditional technique that involves gently flushing warm water or a saline solution into the ear canal using a bulb syringe or a specialised ear irrigation kit. This method helps to loosen and remove stubborn earwax buildup. It is important to tilt the head over a towel during this process to catch any excess liquid.
Visit a Doctor or Specialist
If you are experiencing discomfort or hearing difficulties due to excessive ear wax buildup, it is recommended that you see a doctor or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They have various techniques and instruments, such as small scoopers, vacuums, and irrigation methods, to safely and effectively remove ear wax.
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Ear candles may worsen ear wax buildup
Ear candles, or hollow cone candles made of wax-covered fabric, are used by placing the pointed end in the ear while the other end is lit. The warm "suction" is believed to remove earwax, improve hearing, and treat conditions like sinus infections and colds. However, there is no scientific evidence supporting these claims. In fact, one study found that there was no suction force created during the procedure, and the temperatures produced were too low to melt the wax.
Despite their popularity, ear candles are not a safe option for wax removal. They can cause serious injuries such as burns, obstruction of the ear canal with wax, and perforation of the eardrum. Candle wax can also drip into the ear canal, causing temporary hearing loss. Furthermore, the FDA has not approved ear candles for any medical use due to safety concerns and has taken regulatory actions to protect consumers.
Ear candlers believe that clearing the ear canal will clean out the rest of the passages in the head. However, this idea is a myth as there are solid barriers, such as the eardrum, that separate these passages. Additionally, earwax is sticky and firmly pressed together, requiring strong suction to remove it effectively. The low temperatures produced by ear candles are insufficient for melting the wax.
Instead of using ear candles, it is recommended to see a doctor for a professional ear cleaning or try safe at-home treatments. Over-the-counter ear drops or home remedies like olive oil can help soften and dislodge earwax safely. It is important to follow manufacturer instructions for proper usage. If you have an existing eardrum injury, avoid using moisture as it may cause an infection. Consult your doctor for advice on the best earwax removal method for your specific needs.
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Frequently asked questions
No, ear candles are not safe and can cause serious injuries. The hot wax and ash may burn your face or ears, and there is a risk of ear canal obstruction. The FDA has not approved ear candles for any medical use and has issued warnings to manufacturers.
There is no scientific evidence that ear candles work. Critics argue that they are ineffective in removing earwax, and studies have shown that no significant amount of earwax is extracted. In some cases, ear candle residue can be left behind in the ear canal.
If you need to remove earwax, it is recommended that you visit your doctor or a hearing care expert. They can perform a professional ear cleaning or suggest safe at-home treatments. Some safe at-home treatments include over-the-counter ear drops, hydrogen peroxide, or a few drops of water or olive oil.
